The United States men’s national team launched their FIFA World Cup campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in Los Angeles. Folarin Balogun spearheaded the attack, scoring two first-half goals and becoming the first American to achieve this feat in a World Cup game since 1930. An own goal and a late strike from Gio Reyna completed the scoring for the hosts, marking their highest-scoring World Cup match to date. However, the win was overshadowed by concerns over Christian Pulisic, who was substituted at halftime due to a calf issue. Coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed hope the injury isn't severe. Paraguay managed a single goal in the second half, but the US maintained control throughout the majority of the match.